Comparative analysis of two different alar base sutures after Le Fort I osteotomy: randomized double-blind controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this prospective study was to analyze the efficacy of a new alar base cinch suture by comparing it with the commonly used cinch suture described by Schendel and Delaire in Dr. William Bell's book.

STUDY

DESIGN

Thirty-five patients submitted to maxillary impaction and/or advancements of ≥ 3 mm were randomly divided into 2 groups. Group 1 received an extra oral alar base cinch suture, and patients from group 2 received the classic intraoral suture. Alar and alar base width were measured before and after surgery in digital photographs, with the patient's head in a submental oblique view. Data were reported as means and standard deviations, and difference between groups were determined using Welch t test. A P value of <.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

Mean alar base widening was 1.38 mm in group 1 and 2.5 mm in group 2, and mean alar widening was 1.40 mm in group 1 and 2.31 mm in group 2. The difference was statistically significant (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Extraoral alar base cinch suture was more effective in maintaining preoperative Alar and alar base width compared with classic intraoral nasal suture.